Introduction
On 15 February 1998 at 1550 UTC, a BAe ATP aircraft, registration G-MANC, was involved in a ground incident at Luton Airport, Bedfordshire. The aircraft, manufactured in 1992 and powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW-126 turboprop engines, was operating a public transport flight with four crew members and no passengers on board.
The Accident
During a turnaround, a toilet servicing truck reversed towards the nose of the aircraft while the crew were on board. According to the flight crew, the truck driver reversed at considerable speed without any assistance or guidance from a marshaller. The truck struck the aircraft on the left side near the servicing access panel, causing considerable damage to the aircraft skin and to the ground power socket. The force of the impact was sufficient to displace the aircraft by nine inches.
Damage and Response
After establishing that there were no hydraulic leaks, the flight crew had the gear locking pins fitted and placed the aircraft unserviceable. The nature of the damage included three tears to the pressure hull, internal frame distortion, and minor dents. Temporary repairs were carried out to allow the aircraft to be flown to Southend, where full repairs were performed.
Costs and Aftermath
The aircraft was out of service for approximately 20 days, and the estimated costs for repairs were in the order of £20,000. The truck driver's employer would not discuss or comment on the accident. The commander, aged 35, held an Airline Transport Pilot's Licence and had a total flying experience of 4,100 hours, with 2,400 hours on type.